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What to look for in post sport / work recovery footwear

There is unlimited research and development into sport-specific footwear. Whether it is track and field, netball, cricket, football or even in the workplace, there will be a specific shoe to enhance performance and prevent injury.

But what about recovery footwear after sport, or after a long day at work?

We all know the feeling of wanting to get out of enclosed footwear and let your feet breathe. But walking barefoot on hard floors isn’t ideal, particularly when you’re experiencing aches and pains.

As the foot fatigues, the arch tends to flatten out and the ankle rolls in. You also have stressed ligaments, tired muscles, swelling and sensitivity in your feet. The plantar fascia is often stretched as the arch has elongated, and the Achilles can also be strained. How painful!

So considering these factors, what are the requirements for the ideal after sport/ work footwear?

1. Open footwear
A scuff or thongs/flip flops allow the feet to breathe. A closed in shoe can be constrictive when the foot is swollen and sensitive after rigorous exercise. Minimal material around your foot also helps eliminate excessive sweat and the odours it causes.
2. Ample support
Orthotic thongs have proven to be popular as after sport footwear. Thongs or Scuffs with a moulded foot-bed can have a significant effect on foot pain, function and foot health.
3. Soft Cushioning
Stressed ligaments and tired muscles need good cushioning to recover. Whilst a corrective foot-bed is important to maintain structure, a soft top layer will help reduce sensitivity in your feet.
4. Heel to toe drop
Footwear with some elevation at the heel can ease pressure from the Achilles tendon. Most sport shoes will have between 4-12mm drop from heel to toe. Going from a structured sport shoe to barefoot while the foot is cooling can be a recipe for injury. The ideal recovery thong will have a similar heel-toe elevation.
5. Plantar Fascia relief
With so much stress underneath the foot, recovery footwear should avoid applying too much pressure on the plantar fascia. A plantar fascia groove carved into an orthotic foot-bed can provide the necessary support while reducing pressure underneath the foot.

The Ascent Groove is a dual density orthotic thong that meets all requirements for recovery footwear. The firm base layer is engineered with a 12mm offset and a plantar fascia groove. The top layer is super soft for maximum comfort. The Groove sets a new benchmark in after sports footwear. www.ascentfootwear.com.au/groove